Maun is fast becoming a hub for budding mixed martial arts (MMA) talent, thanks to the efforts of Sensei Devin Stolsie and the Black Dragon Mixed Martial Arts School. As a 3rd-generation black belt under the prestigious Black Dragon lineage, Stolsie has brought the club’s rich history and philosophy to Botswana, inspiring a new generation of fighters.
In a recent interview, Sensei Stolsie shared his passion for martial arts and his vision for the school. “Martial arts is about molding a person into a complete being through discipline, hard work, and self-mastery. It is an extension of a person, not just a sport,” he explained. His two-hour classes reflect this philosophy, blending disciplines such as kickboxing, jiu-jitsu, and ninjutsu to create well-rounded fighters.
The sessions, which cater to students as young as ten years old, emphasise both technical and mental development. Combatants work on strengthening their fundamentals while addressing weaknesses to become versatile and adaptable. “Every combat style individually has its drawbacks,” Stolsie said. “Mixed martial arts is a combination of the martial arts, supporting each other with what each particular art has an advantage in. It strives to create a combat style that is practical in a self-defense situation.”
The Black Dragon Fighting Society, founded in 1983 in South Africa by Hanshi Jan Van Vuuren, has a long history of fostering excellence. As a 7th-degree black belt in Koga Ryu Ninjutsu, Hanshi Van Vuuren’s legacy continues to inspire Stolsie. While the Maun branch maintains the traditional martial arts focus, it also offers specialized training in areas such as self-defense techniques, tactical combat, and social wellness programmes.
One of Stolsie’s ambitious goals is to elevate MMA in Botswana. “While the sport is still young in the nation, it has the potential to grow and bring out talents that could become great. I want to be one of the catalysts that make this happen,” he stated. Plans are already in motion to host a public tournament for amateur fighters, with the hope of eventually grooming athletes for professional bouts.
Students such as Moitoi, a promising newcomer, are already reaping the rewards of the program. “The journey so far has been rewarding. I’m dedicated to the process, learning as much as I can, and hoping to be the best I can,” Moitoi said.
With Stolsie’s vision and the Black Dragon legacy, Maun’s MMA scene is poised for remarkable growth. The club is not just about fighting; it’s about empowering individuals with discipline, resilience, and a sense of community, one punch, kick, and grapple at a time.
